Churchill War Rooms

Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

Details

Users say

Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

The Churchill War Rooms are dedicated to the life and achievements of former British prime minister Winston Churchill (1874-1965). There's much on his political career, and many of his trademark props – including a cigar and his red siren suit – are on display. Perhaps more interesting are the less well known details of Churchill's life, such as his previous occupations as a soldier and a journalist, and his personal interests; he was a talented amateur painter and enjoyed going to the races. Original film footage, photos and recordings are innovatively displayed and the centrepiece of the exhibition is a 50-foot-long computerised timeline that allows you to discover what Churchill was doing and saying – and what significant political events were unfolding – at any point during his life. The War Rooms are Churchill's underground wartime headquarters from 1939 to 1945, preserved as they were left in August 1945. Visitors can also see Mrs Churchill's bedroom, and Winston Churchill's quarters, from which he addressed the nation. An audio guide is included with admission.

From April 2014 new unseen objects telling the little known story of the rooms following their closure will go on show to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Churchill War Rooms public opening. The display will include personal correspondence discussing the fate of the War Rooms, a private admission ticket from the days when visitors had to request special entry to view the site and a poster from 1984, advertising the opening of the Cabinet War Rooms to the public.